The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is one of the most iconic destinations in Spain, not only for its religious importance but also for its historical and architectural wealth. Every year, thousands of pilgrims from the Camino de Santiago and tourists come to the city to admire its majestic structure and discover its many corners full of history. But it’s not just the temple you can see; you can also discover all the museum spaces and points of interest it houses. In this article, we propose a complete visit to the Cathedral of Santiago, a unique experience that will allow you to explore its main treasures, both during the day and at night!
The Cathedral of Santiago, the goal of every pilgrim and the center of Christianity in the Holy Year
Visit the Cathedral of Santiago
The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most outstanding examples of European Romanesque art, although with significant Baroque elements that are appreciated in its various expansions and reforms. It is a Cathedral, as the bishop’s seat, and a basilica, as, according to tradition, it houses the relics of the Apostle James.
The main facade, with its imposing Baroque style, is the highly photographed backdrop of many pilgrim photos who reach it via the Jacobean routes. Oriented west, towards the Plaza del Obradoiro (and hence its name), its main doors are always closed, and they only open during very special events.
The arrival at the Cathedral of Santiago is indescribable
The access to the basilica, with free access every day from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, is usually through the Platerías facade, facing south. Backpacks are not allowed for security reasons (unless they are small), and there are businesses with lockers outside.
In addition to admiring the interior of the Cathedral, you can visit the tomb of Santiago, give the hug to the Apostle, and explore its numerous chapels. Somewhat unnoticed but very important is the Holy Door of the Cathedral, located in the central part of the apse, behind the Main Altar. As you may know, it only opens to the outside during the Holy Year, but it can be seen from the inside without issue.
Masses at the Cathedral of Santiago: the Pilgrim’s Mass
Eucharist services are held daily at different times, and if you want to see the Botafumeiro, you must attend one of them at the Main Altar (although it doesn’t always fly during every mass):
- 7:30 AM, at the Main Altar. Pilgrim’s Mass.
- 9:30 AM, at the Main Altar. Pilgrim’s Mass.
- 11:00 AM, at the Parroquia de la Corticela.
- 12:00 PM, at the Main Altar. Pilgrim’s Mass.
- 7:30 PM, at the Main Altar. Pilgrim’s Mass.
Generally, there are often long lines, especially for the 12:00 PM and 7:30 PM masses. If you want to attend a Pilgrim’s Mass in Santiago, we recommend entering the Cathedral early to avoid queues and get a good spot.
The exit from the basilica is usually through the Cathedral shop; however, after the masses, it is often through the north facade, the Azabacherías facade.
Seeing the Botafumeiro fly is one of the great attractions of the Cathedral of Santiago
Visit the Cathedral Museum
The Cathedral Museum of Santiago is one of the most complete and interesting museums in Santiago de Compostela. This museum houses an impressive collection of sacred art, liturgical objects, and relics that belong to the history of the Cathedral. It is located in the cloister of the Cathedral, a place that by itself is already worthy of admiration for its tranquility and beauty.
It has two entrances and ticket sales counters. One, from the interior of the Cathedral, which gives access to the Treasure, and another, from the Plaza del Obradoiro. It is open every day of the year (except on some holidays) from Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and there are different types of visits that you can learn about and book from the Cathedral of Santiago website.
The Museum of the Cathedral of Santiago
Among the highlights of its content, we can mention:
- Permanent Collection: The museum’s permanent collection includes a variety of works ranging from the Middle Ages to the contemporary period. Among the most notable pieces are medieval sculptures, paintings, and a selection of goldsmithing.
- Clerestory: The cloister of the Cathedral is a space of great beauty. Here is also the Sacred Space, where temporary exhibitions related to the religious and cultural history of Santiago are presented. You can admire the 18th-century bells and the Fons Mirabilis fountain, which was once outside the Cathedral at the French door.
- Treasury and Relics Chapel: In the Cathedral’s Treasure, some of the most valuable pieces that have been part of its liturgy are displayed, including chalices, reliquaries, and liturgical vestments from past centuries. Highlight the relics of another James, James the Less.
Palace of Xelmírez
The Palace of Xelmírez, built between 1120 and 1136 by Archbishop Diego Gelmírez, is one of the most outstanding examples of civil Romanesque architecture in Spain. Located on the north side of the Cathedral of Santiago, the palace reflects the power and importance of the medieval church.
Its austere Romanesque facade contrasts with the richness of its interiors, which include the Hall of Arms, the Ceremonial Hall with its impressive ribbed vault, and a series of medieval sculptures. Today, the Palace of Xelmírez forms part of the visit to the Cathedral Museum of Santiago, where you can see temporary exhibitions related to the history and art of the Cathedral.
The Cathedral of Santiago is a museum space with much to learn
Visit the Pórtico de la Gloria
The Pórtico de la Gloria is one of the main artistic marvels of the Cathedral of Santiago. This impressive work, created by the sculptor Master Mateo in the 12th century, represents one of the pinnacles of European Romanesque art. Through its sculptures, the Pórtico narrates scenes from the Last Judgment, with figures of apostles, prophets, and angels flanking the main door.
Originally, the Pórtico de la Gloria was the main entrance of the Cathedral, facing Plaza del Obradoiro. Over the centuries and the construction of the current Baroque facade, it became protected inside the basilica. Today, after recent restoration, the Pórtico is preserved with its sculptures and its restored polychromy.
It is accessible to visitors, although with advance reservation required (before its restoration, it was freely visited). Access and ticket purchase can be done from the Palace of Xelmírez, or you can also do it via the Cathedral of Santiago website. The guided tour of this space, or the tour with audio guide, is a unique opportunity to understand the symbolism of each figure and learn about the importance of this “Bible in stone” as a means of religious teaching for medieval faithful.
The sculptures of the Pórtico de la Gloria have very natural and human expressions
Visit the Roofs and Carraca Tower
One of the most surprising places for visitors is the access to the Roofs. The climb is a fascinating experience that allows you to see up close the architectural details of the Cathedral and the restoration work being done to keep it in perfect condition.
The Carraca Tower, of medieval origin, is one of the most representative elements of Santiago’s skyline. At the top, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view that spans both the city and the surrounding rural areas, a perspective that few get to experience.
If you want to visit these unique spaces, you can book through the Cathedral of Santiago website.
Aerial view of the Cathedral of Santiago and Plaza de A Quintana
Night visit to the Cathedral of Santiago
The night visit to the Cathedral of Santiago is one of the most magical experiences you can live in the city. As night falls, the Cathedral takes on a mysterious and solemn atmosphere, ideal for enjoying its secrets under soft light that highlights its architectural details. During this visit, guides explain the history of the Cathedral from a different perspective, highlighting its most enigmatic and lesser-known aspects.
Additionally, the night visits include the possibility of accessing some corners of the Cathedral that are not open during the day, such as the main altar and even the Pórtico de la Gloria, allowing you to admire the magnificence of the Cathedral in a peaceful atmosphere without the usual crowds. Night visits are available every day except Mondays, at 10:30 PM, 10:45 PM, and 11:00 PM. Get your ticket on the Cathedral of Santiago website.
The Cathedral of Santiago is a place that truly leaves a mark. Not only because of its size and beauty, but because of the history and the stories it holds. Every corner of the Cathedral and its museum spaces has something special, and undoubtedly, it is a place you must visit if you are in Santiago, whether for its beauty, its history, or the connection you can feel with all those who have passed through it over the centuries. Feel free to visit this artistic gem as a perfect ending to your journey if you also walk the Camino de Santiago.
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